Far from being the thumping great film people come to expect of a thumping name, Alexander Nevsky is way behind the good Soviet (and how many other) films of the last five years, in conception, story, pace and vital meaning.

Sergei Eisenstein's mannerist epic about the Russian hero who warded off the invading Teutonic knights is a near-perfect combination of image and sound.

Edouard Tisse's superb photography and Prokofiev's stirring score contribute to a rhythm that is well-nigh irresistible.

Includes pointed allusions to Nazi Germany in its story about the 13th century Prince Alexander.